Disney Takes Japanese App Global

Disney has launched "Line: Disney Tsum Tsum," a free puzzle app from Japan on mobile devices globally, along with a line of Disney Tsum Tsum stackable soft toys.

The app, which is published by the call and messaging app “Line,” has been downloaded more than 14 million times in Japan.

"Disney Japan has created some of our most successful and popular digital products, and Disney Interactive is proud to be working closely with the team to extend their success globally," says Jimmy Pitaro, president, Disney Interactive. "This is one of the first times that Disney has introduced a distinctly Japanese product to a global audience. ‘Disney Tsum Tsum’ offers our guests a unique combination of quality characters, compelling game play and an engaging social experience."

Coinciding with the global launch of the app, Disney Store has introduced more than 30 different stackable Tsum Tsum soft toys on DisneyStore.com, in select store locations in North America and in Disney parks.

In “Line: Disney Tsum Tsum” (which translates as “Disney Stack Stack”), players connect and pop as many of the Disney Tsum characters as they can in one minute. As they progress through the game, players collect Disney and Disney/Pixar Tsums such as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Stitch and Buzz Lightyear. Each collectible character can be leveled up over time and has a special ability that provides in-game help.

"‘Disney Tsum Tsum’ has quickly become a phenomenon in Japan, and we are very excited about the Japan-originated franchise now going global," says Paul Candland, president, The Walt Disney Company, Japan. "Disney Tsum Tsum is both a physical product and a digital game, allowing our guests to enjoy a multi-dimensional experience. We are hopeful that the Disney Tsum Tsum franchise will be loved and enjoyed by our guests around the world."

By connecting “Line: Disney Tsum Tsum” to a “Line” account, adult players can enjoy social features in-game such as competing for high scores on leaderboards and gifting.

The range of Tsum Tsum soft toys, based on Disney characters from Mickey Mouse to Winnie the Pooh, is available today, with additional characters set to roll out in the fall. The stackable Tsum Tsum toys feature screen cleaner material on their stomachs and come in three different sizes.

"Since the Tsum Tsum plush line debuted at Disney Store in Japan nine months ago, more than 1.6 million units have been sold," says Paul Gainer, executive vice president, Disney Retail. "We believe the popularity of this line in Japan is something that can be replicated globally given their fun and collectible nature."